The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

A mild cold wave, first this winter, may grip the country by the end of this month, while the prevailing foggy weather may lose steam by next one or two days.

This was stated today by weather officials who expect the night temperature to fall further gradually with the discontinuation of fog and overcast skies later this week.

"The persisting foggy weather sweeping the country's northern and central regions in the last few days will improve significantly by next one or two days," meteorologist SM Mahmudul Haq told UNB Sunday.

He said with disappearance of fog the night temperature may also start dropping gradually.

This may result in a mild cold wave sweeping most parts of the country by the end of this month, he said, adding the upcoming cold wave will be felt in the northern and central regions, especially in the districts of Jessore, Rajshahi, Kushtia and Sylhet.

The temperature in those regions may drop by six to eight degrees Celsius next week.

Meanwhile, the sweeping cold coupled with dense fog has disrupted normal life in the country's northern region and the few places in central districts.

Traffic movement on roads, highways and waterways and air flights were also being disrupted due to poor visibility caused by thick fog.

Two people died of cold related diseases at Sundarganj in Gaibandha district in last three days, unofficial sources said.

Hospital sources in the affected areas said rush of patients, mostly children, suffering from cold-related ailments has marked a rise in the last few days due to the rough weather.

Ferry services on different routes, including those on busy Paturia-Daulatdia route, were also being disrupted daily in the past few days, inflicting immense sufferings on long-haul passengers and causing huge traffic jams.